United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has reiterated the call for an end to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, affirming the Palestinian people’s right to dignity, justice, and self-determination.
In a statement released on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, Guterres emphasized the urgent need for irreversible progress towards a two-state solution. He noted that this year’s observance comes after two years of immense suffering in the Gaza Strip.
The Secretary-General highlighted the fragile ceasefire as a glimmer of hope, while survivors mourn the loss of tens of thousands of relatives and friends, a significant portion being children. He also drew attention to the widespread hunger, disease, psychological trauma, and destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals in the region.
Guterres also addressed the ongoing injustices in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. He cited Israeli military operations, settler violence, settlement expansion, demolitions, evictions, and threats of annexation as causes for grave concern.
The statement acknowledged the tragic loss of hundreds of humanitarian workers, primarily Palestinian UN staff, representing the highest number of casualties the organization has suffered in any single conflict in its history. An unprecedented number of journalists have also been killed since World War II.
Guterres stressed the importance of upholding the ceasefire by all parties and working in good faith to restore respect for international law. This includes the swift return of hostages’ remains and allowing sufficient humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. He urged the international community to continue its unwavering support for UNRWA, recognizing it as an indispensable lifeline for millions of Palestinians.
The Secretary-General concluded by reiterating the necessity to end the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory, as affirmed by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly. He called for concrete steps towards a two-state solution based on international law and UN resolutions.
